Symptoms of eating disorders: Watch out for extreme dieting, even anxiety and depression

Eating disorders often manifest through physical symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, persistent digestive issues, fatigue, or dizziness (Image: Canva)

Eating disorders are complex mental illnesses that can be hard to spot. Disorders like anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating involve severe issues with eating habits and body image, suggest multiple studies. The symptoms vary widely, from extreme dieting and purging to binge eating, and are often linked to deeper psychological problems like anxiety or depression.

According to a research on PubMed, recognising these disorders early is vital for effective treatment. Despite their serious physical effects, such as malnutrition and heart problems, people often try to hide their behaviours, making it challenging to diagnose.

An eating disorder is a serious mental health condition which is marked by abnormal eating behaviours that significantly impact your physical and mental health. “It's important to emphasise that eating disorders are not lifestyle choices but complex illnesses often rooted in a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors,” says Mansi Poddar, a Trauma informed Psychotherapist.

Eating disorders are complex mental illnesses that can be difficult to recognise. Poddar suggests one should watch out for these common triggers:

Obsession with weight, food, or body shape: Constantly thinking about food, calories, or body image and frequently checking body weight.

Changes in eating habits: Skipping meals, refusing to eat with others, or binge eating. Either eating too much or too little. Trying to compensate for eating by vomiting or misuse of laxatives or diuretics.

Social withdrawal: One significant indicator of an eating disorder is social withdrawal, such as isolating yourself from friends and family or preferring to eat alone. This behaviour can signal deeper emotional issues related to eating disorders, where anxiety about eating or body image causes discomfort in social settings.

Mood swings and irritability: Extreme mood swings and irritability are common among people with eating disorders. For example, if you experience intense frustration or anger after missing a scheduled workout, this can be linked to the stress and imbalance caused by restrictive eating and excessive exercise.

Preoccupation with exercise: An obsessive focus on exercise, even to the point of physical harm, is a frequent sign of eating disorders. For instance, engaging in compulsive workout routines despite experiencing joint pain or severe fatigue can indicate that exercise is being used as a means of controlling weight or coping with emotional stress.

Denial of the problem: Denying the severity of eating disorder behaviours can hinder recovery. Say, if you downplay the extent of restrictive eating or significant weight loss by convincing yourself it’s just a temporary phase, you may be avoiding the reality of the situation.

Physical symptoms: Eating disorders often manifest through physical symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, persistent digestive issues, fatigue, or dizziness. These symptoms reflect the body’s response to nutritional deficiencies and stress from disordered eating behaviours. Experiencing irregular menstrual cycles or frequent dizziness can indicate significant imbalances in your body resulting from inadequate nutrition or excessive physical stress.

How to deal with eating disorder:

If you suspect you’re struggling with an eating disorder, it's important to reach out for support. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or doctor to share your concerns. Seeking professional help from a therapist, counselor, or registered dietitian can provide essential support and guidance tailored to your needs. Joining a support group can also be beneficial, as connecting with others who understand your experience can make you feel less isolated.

Additionally, prioritise self-care by focusing on physical activity, ensuring adequate sleep, and maintaining a balanced diet. Remember, recovery is a gradual process, so be patient and compassionate with yourself during the course.